Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a 2025 American psychological thriller‑drama that dives into the tense, post‑war atmosphere of 1945 Germany. The story follows U.S. Army psychiatrist Lt. Col. Douglas Kelley (Rami Malek) as he is called to evaluate the mental fitness of 22 high‑ranking Nazi leaders, including Hermann Göring (Russell Crowe), who are being held by the Allies in preparation for the historic Nuremberg Trials. Kelley’s job is to determine whether these men are fit to stand before an international tribunal, and in doing so he finds himself locked in a battle of intellect and ethics with Göring, who is both a formidable opponent and a complex character.

The film is written, co‑produced, and directed by James Vanderbilt and is based on Jack El‑Hai’s 2013 book The Nazi and the Psychiatrist. It features a strong supporting cast that includes Leo Woodall, John Slattery, Mark O’Brien, Colin Hanks, Wrenn Schmidt, Lydia Peckham, Richard E. Grant, and Michael Shannon. The production began in Budapest in February 2024 and wrapped by May of that year. Sony Pictures Classics released the film in the United States on November 7, 2025, following a world premiere in the Gala Presentations section of the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, 2025.

Critics have generally responded positively, with a 71 % approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a Metacritic score of 61 out of 100. Russell Crowe’s performance as Göring has been singled out as a highlight, earning him particular praise. Some reviewers note the film’s measured pacing and emotional restraint, suggesting it may feel a bit slow for those used to more fast‑paced thrillers. Others appreciate its earnest, educational tone and its attempt to illuminate the psychological underpinnings of the Nazi leadership.

If you’re a fan of historical dramas that explore the moral complexities of war, or if you enjoy thoughtful character studies, Nuremberg will likely resonate with you. The film’s focus on psychological evaluation and courtroom strategy offers a unique angle that sets it apart from typical war movies. On the flip side, if you prefer high‑energy action or a more sensationalized retelling of history, you might find the film’s deliberate pacing and restrained emotional beats a bit underwhelming. Overall, Nuremberg is a well‑crafted, thought‑provoking piece that invites viewers to reflect on justice, accountability, and the human psyche in the aftermath of conflict.